Support surface assembly for a sleeping person

ABSTRACT

A support surface assembly for a sleeping person that comprises a rigid frame with an upper edge for supporting an air-permeable layer and an air-permeable layer that is fixedly joined to the upper edge in a desired tension, such that the upper edge is entirely covered by the outer perimeter of the air-permeable layer. The air-permeable layer comprises a lattice grid structure such as a mesh material, a netting or a web-like material. The outer perimeter of the air-permeable layer is joined to the frame at the side wall or at the bottom wall of the frame.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of International Patent Application No. PCT/IL2007/000976, filed Aug. 6, 2007, which claims priority to Israeli Patent Application No. 182576, filed Apr. 6, 2007 and Israeli Patent Application No. 177343, filed Aug. 7, 2006 all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to the field of sleeping surfaces. In particular, the present invention relates to a support surface assembly for sleeping persons. More particularly, the present invention relates to an air-permeable support surface assembly to allow a person to breathe naturally and without obstruction while sleeping thereon.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sleep is considered to be a time of growth and rejuvenation for organisms. Teenagers and adults typically sleep between 6-8 hours per night, while children and the elderly often require more sleep and thus spend more time in bed. It is therefore important that the surface that one sleeps on, no matter what one's age, does not pose any risks for any health or physical harm.

One of the many aspects of infant care includes the position in which an infant should sleep. Based on current research, parents are advised to place a sleeping infant in a supine (face-up) position, as opposed to a prone (face-down) position, due to the possible risks involved with prone sleeping. These risks include suffocation, which may occur if air (oxygen) flow to the infant is obstructed. Such an incident is more likely when the infant is positioned in a manner wherein its mouth and nose are in close contact with or are enveloped by a soft mattress or a mattress cover. Similarly, in a prone position, the infant typically breathes into a small enclosed space, so that it may ingest its own carbon dioxide for an extended period of time, which can lead to asphyxiation.

Although the sleeping infant may be positioned in its crib or bed in a supine position, when the infant is strong enough to turn over by itself, it may change on its own to a prone position. In many cases, an infant may be strong enough to turn from a supine to prone position, but not the reverse. Thus, if an adult does not notice that the infant has turned over, the infant may remain in the prone position for an entire night.

It is therefore important that the surface upon which an infant sleeps is air-permeable to allow the infant to breathe naturally and fully without obstruction, even in a prone position.

There have been various attempts by the prior art to overcome to problems associated with sleeping infants, however they each have drawbacks or difficulties of their own.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,273 discloses a mattress assembly for supporting a sleeping infant or child. The assembly comprises a frame member and a mattress cover supported in tension over the frame member. The frame member has an open box-like structure with wide legs and side walls. The side walls comprise recessed portions for allowing some air-flow to transfer between the surroundings and the bottom of the mattress cover. The frame member is typically made of a rigid or semi-rigid material. The invention disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,273 is essentially an entire bed structure for replacing a conventional bed.

The structure is bulky, and, depending on the material of the frame may be weighty and difficult to transport and store. Additionally, when the infant soils the mattress cover, the mattress cover must be removed and cleaned before refastening. This process can be very tedious, depending on the fastening arrangement used and on the dexterity of the adult who performs the removing and refastening, especially when soiling occurs frequently.

It is important to note that although U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,273 attempts to provide an unblocked passage for air flow, due to the thick side wrap portions, air flow between the surroundings and the bottom of the mattress cover is somewhat restricted. Thus, since the frame member is comprised of a substantial thickness, the infant may move its body to the frame area while it is sleeping, which can result in suffocation or asphyxiation, as described herein above.

An additional risk associated with infant care, in particular, with reference to U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,273, includes potential injury to the infant. The frame member of U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,273 is made of a hard material, and comprises a substantial thickness. Thus, if an infant accidentally falls or moves abruptly when situated on the bed, it might bang its head or other body part on the frame. In some cases, this may cause the infant to grow a bump, and in more severe cases, bleeding, or even a concussion may occur.

Furthermore, as the child grows in size (weight and height), the mattress cover of U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,273 will undergo a sinking (or, sagging) effect over time. Since the fastening means is rigid, there is no solution to this problem except to purchase a new mattress cover to replace the old one.

In addition to the importance of the structure of the sleeping surface of an infant as described above, the structure of the surface on which an older child or an adult sleeps will often have an affect on the health of the person.

Recently, an increase in the prevalence of asthma, nasal allergies and eczema has been observed particularly in industrialized countries. These maladies are frequently exacerbated by dust mites, pollen, hair shed from house pets, etc. Dust mites, flourish in areas where dust accumulates in the home, especially in moist and humid conditions, such as found on and below mattresses and within carpets. The mites nourish on flakes of skin that are shed from the body, and they attach themselves to the textile fibers of the mattress and carpet. Often, their attachment to these fibers is so strong that even the suction force from a standard vacuum cleaner is not strong enough to remove the mites.

Children in particular are exposed to high levels of dust mites for long periods of time and therefore suffer more than adults from symptoms related to this exposure. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in September, 2004, showed that improvement in allergy and asthma related afflictions occurred when measures were taken to remove dust mites from the home. 937 children between the ages of 5-11, with moderate to severe asthma were examined. The families of these children were given anti-allergenic items, such as mattress covers, special vacuum cleaners and air filters for use in their homes. The results indicated a significant decrease in asthma symptoms for these children, including fewer nocturnal awakenings, fewer absences from school and fewer stays in the hospital. The latest international guidelines on asthma have emphasized the importance of prevention of exposure to asthma triggers within the home in general, and especially to dust mites.

As indicated above, mattress covers made of a unique material that seal in the dust mites exist and are intended to prevent the sleeping person from breathing in the mites during sleep. However, such covers are uncomfortable for the user to sleep on, are expensive to purchase and need to be changed regularly. Other preventative measures include unique vacuum cleaners and air filters, which are often costly as well, and extermination spray, which may be hazardous to one's health and not efficient.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a support surface that allows a person to remain in a healthy state while sleeping thereon.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface that allows air flow to pass through.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface assembly comprising an air permeable layer.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface assembly for a sleeping infant, which reduces the risk of injury to an infant that falls on it.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface assembly that is easy to transport and may be collapsed and stored easily.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface assembly which is easily cleanable.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface assembly that prevents the accumulation of dust mites on it.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support surface assembly that prevents sagging of the air-permeable layer.

Additional objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a support surface assembly for reducing risk of injury to a sleeping person that comprises:

-   -   a. an air-permeable layer;     -   b. an essentially rigid frame comprising an upper portion having         an upper edge, a lower portion having a bottom wall, and side         walls, for supporting said air-permeable layer, said frame         extending along the perimeter of said support surface assembly;         and     -   c. means for fixedly joining said air-permeable layer to said         frame.

Said joining means is applied such that said air-permeable layer is provided with a desired tension and entirely covers said upper edge. The outer perimeter of the air-permeable layer may be joined to the frame at the side wall or bottom wall of the frame.

The thickness of said upper edge is less than that of said bottom wall and ranges from 0.5 to 100 mm, and more preferably, from 0.5 to 3 mm, thereby reducing risk of injury with respect to said frame if the sleeping person falls on said air-permeable layer. The frame may be covered by padding.

The air-permeable layer comprises a lattice grid structure that may be chosen from the group consisting of:

-   -   a. a mesh material;     -   b. a netting; and,     -   c. a web-like material.

In one aspect, the frame further comprises a plurality of passageways for providing additional air flow means. Additionally, at least one transverse cross-bar is situated transversely within the frame.

In one aspect, a breathing and movement monitor is positioned below the cross bar. A conventional mattress is optionally situated at the underside of the frame.

In one aspect, the frame further comprises pivotable transverse sides, for inwardly folding said frame.

The frame preferably further comprises opposing transverse walls joined to opposing longitudinal walls by a mechanism for correcting sagging of the air-permeable layer.

The mechanism is spring loaded, and may be chosen from the group consisting of a spring loaded hinge; and, a pivotable hinge and a compression spring.

In one aspect, vibratory motion of the air-permeable layer is transmitted to a movement sensor placed on a frame support by means of a vibration transmitter.

In one aspect, the support surface assembly further comprises a plurality of pivotable legs for elevating one longitudinal end of the frame.

The present invention is also directed to a vibration transmitter for transmitting vibratory motion of a suspended surface, comprising an upper member in contact with an underside of said suspended surface, a lower member in contact with a movement sensor placed on a stationary surface and coupled to said upper member, and spring means extending from said lower member to a surface of said upper member, said lower member adapted to oscillate in response to said vibratory motion, whereby to induce a corresponding electrical signal by means of said movement sensor.

In one aspect, a portion of an upper member body surrounds a lower member body, and the lower member is coupled with the upper member by means of one or more pins protruding from the side of the lower member body and received in a corresponding vertically oriented groove formed in the upper member body.

In one aspect, the spring means is a stiff coiled spring by which the upper and lower members are vertically displaced in unison in response to the vibratory motion.

In one aspect, the upper member has a flange for contacting the suspended surface, said flange being made of, or covered by, a resilient material for protecting a person located on the suspended surface.

In one aspect, the suspended surface is an air permeable layer. The air permeable layer is supported by an essentially rigid frame comprising an upper portion having an upper edge, a lower portion having a bottom wall, and side walls. The air-permeable layer is fixedly joined to said frame such that said air-permeable layer is provided with a desired tension and entirely covers said upper edge. The thickness of the upper edge is less than that of said bottom wall, thereby reducing risk of injury with respect to the frame if a sleeping person falls on the air-permeable layer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates the first embodiment of the present invention in a top perspective view;

FIG. 2 illustrates the first embodiment of the present invention in a bottom perspective view;

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the present invention taken along A-A of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an infant sleeping in a bed on the support surface assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates the view of FIG. 3, wherein a breathing and movement monitor is situated below the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, taken along A-A of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic perspective view of the present invention wherein the support surface assembly is inwardly foldable;

FIG. 8 illustrates a second embodiment of the frame of the present invention in a cross-sectional view;

FIG. 9 illustrates a third embodiment of the present invention in a top perspective view;

FIG. 10 illustrates the third embodiment of the present invention in a bottom perspective view;

FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 taken along B-B of FIG. 9;

FIGS. 12 a-12 d illustrate alternative embodiments of the frame of the present invention in cross-sectional views;

FIG. 13 illustrates a top perspective view of a first embodiment of the sagging correction mechanism;

FIG. 14 illustrates a top perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, with the correction mechanism in an exploded view;

FIG. 15 illustrates the double plate spring for the correction mechanism of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 illustrates a cross sectional view taken along C—C of FIG. 13, showing the side wall in an outwardly angled position with respect to the crossbar;

FIG. 17 illustrates a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a sagging correction mechanism, with the mechanism in an exploded view;

FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the mechanism in an exploded view;

FIG. 19 illustrates the results of the first example, for determining the ability of the invention to prevent dust mites from accumulating on the support surface, in Table 1;

FIG. 20 illustrates the results of the second example, for determining the ability of the invention to prevent CO₂ accumulation;

FIG. 21 illustrates a top perspective view of a frame in exploded fashion, according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22 illustrates a side view from the interior of an assembled transversal wall of the frame of FIG. 21, showing a downwardly extending pivotal leg;

FIG. 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention taken along D-D of FIG. 1, showing a vibration transmitter that interfaces between an air permeable layer and a movement sensor;

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of the vibration transmitter of FIG. 23, showing an upper member thereof in an uppermost position when coupled to the lower member thereof; and

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of the vibration transmitter of FIG. 23, shown in exploded fashion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The average person spends between six to eight hours sleeping, out of a twenty-four hour day. Children and the elderly often spend even more time sleeping. It is therefore important that the construction of the mattress that one sleeps on is conducive to one's health. The present invention is concerned with providing a sleeping surface that can benefit people of all ages.

With regard to infants, it is important for an infant to be able to breathe naturally and without obstruction at all times while sleeping. Conventional mattresses are typically air-impermeable, which, therefore, blocks air flow to an infant who is sleeping in a face down position. This may cause the infant to stop breathing due to physical suffocation or by rebreathing of CO₂ which may ultimately result in death. The present invention solves this problem by providing an air-permeable surface on which an infant may sleep, which enables air flow even when sleeping in a face down position. Additionally, the air-permeable surface of the present invention is constructed such that the risk of injury due to collision with a rigid frame is reduced to almost zero.

A first embodiment of the support surface assembly of the present invention, shown in a top perspective view in FIG. 1 and a bottom perspective view in FIG. 2, and designated generally by the numeral (10), comprises an air-permeable layer (20) and a rigid frame (30) for supporting air-permeable layer (20).

Air-permeable layer (20) comprises a lattice grid (e.g., mesh, netting, web-like, etc.) structure, having a predetermined grid density. Layer (20) is made of a sturdy material, for instance, nylon, polyester or metallic wire. Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the outer perimeter of layer (20) preferably extends past the upper edge (32) of frame (30) and around the side wall (34) of frame (30), as shown and described in FIG. 3 herein below.

The degree of firmness as well as the elasticity of layer (20) is determined based on factors including the density of the grid, the hardness or softness of the material of layer (20) and the tautness of layer (20) (i.e., how tightly layer (20) is pulled over the upper edge (32) of frame (30)). These parameters are typically determined prior to manufacturing. Preferably, layer (20) is made of a soft, light weight material that provides an ergonomic and comfortable feel to the person lying thereon.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of support surface assembly (10) of the present invention taken along A-A of FIG. 1. Frame (30) comprises an upper portion (36) having a substantially triangular cross-section, and a lower portion (40) having a substantially rectangular cross-section. Upper and lower portions (36), (40) are preferably a single integral unit, but alternatively may be made of more than one element.

As described herein above, layer (20) is preferably wrapped around side wall (34) and is fixedly joined to frame (30) at bottom wall (35) by means known in the art, for instance, hot or cold welding, or by providing adhesive material at the interfacing surfaces. Alternatively, layer (20) is fixedly joined to frame (30) at side wall (34) or at the upper edge of frame (30) (not shown in the figures). When joining layer (20) to frame (30) at bottom wall (35) (or even at side wall (34)), the adhesive material for joining layer (20) to frame (30), is non-harmful and non-toxic, and is safely distanced from the infant's mouth or nose. Therefore, even if the infant sleeps directly above the upper edge (32), there is little danger of the infant accidentally ingesting the adhesive material.

Frame (30) is made of any rigid material, for instance, metal, wood, hard plastic, etc. Upper edge (32) is preferably rounded, and may have any diameter (thickness), but preferably has a diameter of between 0.5-5 mm, more preferably, between 2-3 mm. The rounded configuration provides a safer environment than a cornered configuration, particularly for an infant who may fall and bang his head or other body part on upper edge (32), as described herein above. Optionally, upper edge (32) may be covered by a padding, such as foam or soft plastic. Moreover, even if the infant does fall in the area of frame (30), it is likely that the infant will not fall directly on rigid frame (30) due to the relatively thin upper edge (32).

As shown in FIG. 4, due to the geometrical configuration of frame (30), as well as the shape of the human head (2) even when the mouth of the sleeping infant may be pressed against, or in close proximity to frame (30), unobstructed air flow is possible.

Referring again to FIG. 3, upper portion (36) preferably comprises a plurality of passageways (38), thereby providing additional means to allow air flow to reach an infant that is sleeping with its mouth pressed against, or in close proximity to frame (30). Although passageways (38) are shown in the figures situated at upper portion (36) of frame (30), it is understood that they may be alternatively, or additionally be situated at lower portion (40), mutatis mutandis.

Preferably, transverse cross bars (42) (FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) extend between opposing lower portions (40) of frame (30) for providing support to frame (30). Although two cross bars (42) are shown in the embodiment herein (FIG. 2), the number of bars and the thickness of each cross bar (42) may vary according to factors such as the dimensions of frame (30) and the weight of the infant.

Cleaning of support surface assembly (10) may be accomplished by conventional means such as by wiping layer (20) and frame (30) with a rag and/or cleaning fluid. Alternatively, support surface assembly (10) may be soaked in a tub or pool of cleaning fluid for a predetermined amount of time. A preferred method of cleaning support surface assembly (10) is by spraying warm or hot water by, for instance, with the aid of a shower head. A conventional mattress is much more difficult to clean, and may not be washed or soaked as described above. A vacuum cleaner may be used for cleaning a conventional mattress; however, inevitably, not all of the dirt is removed. The present invention allows a thorough cleaning of support surface assembly (10), which essentially completely rids support surface assembly (10) of bacteria, dust mites and dirt. Additionally, due to the lattice grid structure of the sleeping surface of the present invention it prevents dust and bacteria accumulation thereby creating a clean and mite-free sleeping surface (10), particularly in comparison to a conventional mattress. This is especially advantageous for infants suffering from allergies.

Optionally, as shown in a schematic cross-sectional view in FIG. 5, mutatis mutandis, a respiratory movement sensor (44) is positioned below cross bars (42).

According to another embodiment, a respiratory movement sensor may be attached to the air-permeable layer (20), in order to sense mechanical vibrations resulting from breathing. The sensor transmits signals that represent the profile or pattern of the sensed vibrations to a monitoring device, which analyzes them and compares them to a reference profile or pattern that corresponds to a normal respiratory state of the infant. Whenever the sensed profile or pattern deviates from a predetermined threshold, the monitoring device will issue an alarm or noticeable signal (which can be visual, audible, mechanical etc.).

In the embodiment of FIG. 23, a movement sensor (584), such as one provided with a piezoelectric transducer for sensing movement including breathing patterns of the sleeping person, is placed on frame support (591) of the bed. A vibration transmitter (590) is positioned between air permeable layer (20) of assembly (10) and movement sensor (584).

A movement sensor (584) has generally been placed heretofore underneath the mattress of the sleeping person, resulting in a significant attenuation of the received signal by the mattress material and a faulty alarm signal being generated. As a result of the attenuation of the received signal, more serious problems can arise, such as a parent not being alerted during a life threatening condition of an infant, e.g. an apnea event.

Since vibration transmitter (590) interfaces between air permeable layer (20) and movement sensor (584), the vibratory movement of air permeable layer (20) resulting from the movement of the sleeping person will be directly transmitted to movement sensor (584), thereby preventing significant attenuation of the received signal.

As also shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, vibration transmitter (590) comprises a lower member (585) positioned on movement sensor (584) and an upper member (595) that contacts air permeable layer (20) and is vertically displaceable with respect to member (585).

Vertically disposed body (587) of lower member (585), e.g. of tubular configuration, has an underlying base (583) which is placed on top of movement sensor (584). Post (588) on which is mounted coiled spring (576) upwardly protrudes from body (587). A pin (586) protrudes from each of two opposite sides of body (587), and is substantially perpendicular to post (588).

Upper member (595) has a hollow body (597) that surrounds body (587) of lower member (585) and an upper flange (599) substantially perpendicular to base (583) for contacting air permeable layer (20). Flange (599) is preferably made of, or covered by, a soft spongy material for protecting the person sleeping on layer (20). An elliptical groove (593) is formed in body (597) such that its major axis is vertically oriented. Pin (586) of member (585) is received in a corresponding groove (593) and urges member (595) to be displaced along a vertical path as groove (593) slides along pin (586). The bottom edge of groove (593) defines the uppermost position of upper member (590), as shown in FIG. 24.

Coiled spring (576) extends from post (588) to the underside of flange (599), and may be made of such a stiff material that it transmits vibratory motion of the sleeping person via layer (20), causing upper member (590) and lower member (585) to be displaced in unison, yet is sufficiently resilient to permit relative displacement between upper member (590) and lower member (585) when upper member (590) is directly contacted.

Vertical slits (584 a) and (584 b) may be formed in body (587), to provide a flexible portion (589) therebetween. Flexible portion (589) is pressed inwardly into the interior of body (587) when pin (586) is desired to be received in groove (593). Pin (586) may also be spring biased, so that it may be inwardly displaced before being inserted in the corresponding groove (593).

Additionally or alternatively, as shown in a schematic cross-section in FIG. 6, mutatis mutandis, a conventional mattress (62) is situated at the underside of frame (30) A rigid or semi-rigid thin layer (43), is disposed between mattress (62) and frame (30), for providing support for mattress (62). Layer (43) may be removably fastened to bottom wall (35) by adhesive means such as Velcro™, tape, magnetic means, etc. When the infant is old enough to sleep on a conventional mattress without concern for the above-mentioned risks, support surface assembly (10) may be flipped over, and utilized as a conventional mattress. Although mattress (62) obstructs at least a portion of the air flow through layer (20), passageways (38) provide. sufficient openings for the transfer of air between the infant and the surroundings. One advantage of providing support surface assembly (200) comprising mattress (62) is to impart a psychologically appealing effect for a consumer who may otherwise be scared away from purchasing a sleeping surface with which he is unfamiliar.

Optionally, support surface assembly (10) of the present invention is inwardly foldable, as indicated by arrows (12) in schematic FIG. 7. This allows support surface assembly (10) to be more easily transported as well as to be capable of being stored in a more compact location than when in a fully open position. Transverse sides (46) of frame (30) are comprised of first (46 a) and second (46 b) members, pivotably joined at their inner ends by pivot (48). A suitable latch mechanism (not shown) may be situated at the longitudinal ends (50) of frame (30) for maintaining support surface assembly in a folded position. When in an open position, the pivotably joined ends of first (46 a) and second (46 b) portions are locked in place by means well known in the art.

In a second embodiment, the cross-section of frame (130) may be shaped according to the configuration shown in FIG. 8, mutatis mutandis, forming an L-shaped wire frame. This configuration allows even greater air flow at the area in proximity to frame (130) than that allowed in frame (30) of the first embodiment, since frame (130) comprises less volume than that of frame (30).

Passageway (138) is situated at the upper end of vertical portion (138) of frame (130). Supporting member (139) is optionally joined at one of its ends to vertical portion (138) and at the other of its ends to horizontal portion (140) of frame (130) for providing support thereto. Upper edge (132) is formed in a hook shape, and is preferably covered with padding as described herein above for frame (30) of the first embodiment, for instance, soft plastic or foam. It is understood that frames (30), (130) shown herein are merely illustrative embodiments, and any geometrical shape or configurations comprising the features as describes herein is included within support surface assembly (10) of the present invention.

A third embodiment of the support surface assembly of the present invention (200) is shown in FIGS. 9-11 comprising all of the same features as described herein above for the first embodiment, mutatis mutandis. A top perspective view of support surface assembly (200) is shown in FIG. 9, and a bottom perspective view of support surface assembly (200) is shown in FIG. 10. Air permeable layer (220) covers rigid frame (230), and is affixed thereto at bottom wall (235) FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of embodiment (200), taken across B-B of FIG. 9. When FIGS. 10 and 11 are contrasted to FIGS. 2 and 3 respectively, showing a similar view of support surface assembly of the first embodiment (10), it is appreciated that the elements of embodiment (200) are essentially the same, with the following differences. Thickness (l₁) as well as width (w₁) of cross-bars (242) are less than thickness (l₂) and width (w₂) of cross-bars (42). Additionally, cross-bars (242) are positioned at the lower portion (240) of frame (230), to allow a greater amount of air-flow underneath air-permeable layer (220). A further distinction between first embodiment (10) and embodiment (200), is shown in that the width (d₁) of lower portion (240) of frame (230) is less than the width (d₂) of lower portion (40) of frame (30). This, too, allows greater air-flow, especially when the infant's mouth is positioned in proximity to frame (230) (see FIG. 4).

Advantages of the third embodiment (200) include providing a support surface assembly having stability and strength similar to that of support surface assembly (10), yet comprising lower manufacturing costs due to less material required for the manufacturing process. Inexpensive manufacturing costs result in a lower cost to the consumer. Moreover, embodiment (200) is light weight do to the less amount of material used, which allows the user to easily transport the support surface assembly.

According to all embodiments of the present invention, even when the infant is sleeping in a supine position, it may be fully covered by a blanket or quilt, yet it may still breathe naturally without risk of suffocation.

According to another aspect of the present invention as described herein above, the support surface assembly can be used also for reducing the aggregation of dust and bacteria, particularly, the house dust mite that causes asthma, nasal allergy and some forms of eczema.

FIGS. 12 a-12 d show further alternative embodiments of the frame of the present invention, mutatis mutandis, in cross-sectional views, showing only one side wall, for illustrative purposes only. Frame (330 a) shown in FIG. 12 a comprises an essentially vertical side wall (336 a). The thickness and length of wall (336 a) is determined, among other things, based on the strength of the material from which frame (330 a) is made. Frame (330 b) shown in FIG. 12 b comprises a side wall having essentially a truncated right triangular shape. The dimensions of triangular frame (330 b) may vary according to predetermined considerations. Upper edge (331 b) is shown flat in this embodiment, however it is understood that upper edge (331 b) may be rounded. FIGS. 12 c and 12 d show side walls of frames (330 c), (330 d) having a shape similar to that of embodiment (200) shown in FIG. 11. A padding, such as rubber, silicon, a spongy or foam material, soft plastic etc. preferably covers the upper edge (331 c), (331 d) of the frame as described above in relation to the first embodiment, and shown illustratively in FIGS. 12 c and 12 d. This feature is an additional safety feature of the frame of the sleeping surface for preventing injury due to contact with the upper edge. FIG. 12 c shows padding (332 c) in a horizontal position, essentially parallel to the permeable layer (not shown). FIG. 12 d shows the upper edge of frame (330 d) comprising a groove in which padding (332 d) is situated. Other orientations and positions of the padding on the upper edge of the frame are understood to be within the scope of the invention. Although all of the embodiments of the frame shown in FIGS. 12 a-12 d are shown without a passageway (as shown in the other embodiments), it is understood that a passageway may be included.

Moreover, it is understood that a passageway is not required to be present in any of the other embodiments.

As described herein above regarding the prior art, but related to the present invention as well, as the child grows in size, sagging of the air permeable layer occurs. This causes the child to sink and, in some cases, actually contact the crossbars. One or more of several solutions to this difficulty may be utilized, as described herein below.

FIG. 13 shows a top perspective view of an embodiment of a frame (400) of the present invention comprising a first embodiment of a mechanism for correcting the sagging resulting from extended use of a growing child (or an adult). According to this embodiment, transverse side walls (446 a), (446 b) are attached to cross bar (442) and to longitudinal walls (450 a), (450 b) by means of the mechanism to provide a constant stretching of the permeable layer (not shown) around transverse side walls (446 a), (446 b). Side wall (446 a) is shown, for illustrative purposes, in an outwardly pivoted position. The cross-sectional profile of the side walls of frame (400) are essentially the same as that shown in FIG. 12 c. Additionally, in frame (400), a single cross bar (442) is utilized, situated essentially at the midpoint of the transverse side walls (446 a), (446 b). Cross bar (442) comprises a unique cross-sectional profile (see FIG. 16), and situated at a distance from the air-permeable layer (not shown) such that even if some sagging occurs, the user will not contact the cross bar (442).

FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of the mechanism (402) for correcting sagging of the air-permeable layer (not shown). Mechanism (402) is shown for connecting transverse side wall (446 b) to longitudinal walls (450 a) and (450 b), and to cross bar (442), however it is understood that a similar connection is present regarding transverse side wall (446 a). Mechanism (402) comprises two steel, L-shaped spring loaded hinges (404), (406), disposed one on top of the other (see FIG. 15). The wings (408), (410) of hinges (404), (406) have an angle of preferably 95° between them, as described herein below.

Referring to the connection between longitudinal wall (450 a) and transverse wall (446 b), a first wing (408) of each hinge (404), (406) is joined to the underside of longitudinal wall (450 a) at a recessed portion (452) cut out to receive wing (408). A second wing (410) of each hinge (404), (406) is joined to transverse wall (446 b) at a recessed portion (448) cut out to receive wing (410). Hinge (404), (406) may be affixed to frame (400) by nails or screws passing through openings (420) (see FIG. 15), by glue, or by any other adhesive means.

Thus, as seen in FIG. 16, showing a cross-sectional view taken along C—C of FIG. 13, when assembled, in the normal position, prior to the stretching of the air-permeable layer (not shown) over frame (400), transverse wall (446 b) is at approximately a 5° angle (α) with respect to the vertical end wall (444) of cross bar (442). When the air-permeable layer is stretched over the walls of frame (400), transverse wall (446 a) is rotated to lie essentially flush with the vertical end (444) of cross bar (442), thereby reducing the angle (α) to essentially zero. When a user lies down on the support surface assembly having mechanism (402), spring properties of hinges (404), (406) provide a constant outward force so that if sagging that occurs as a result of the weight of the user, hinge (404), (406) forces the transverse side walls, and thereby the air permeable layer, to stretch taut over the frame.

It is understood that although mechanism (402) is shown in the figures herein comprising two hinges (404), (406), only one, or more than two may be desired in some cases. Additionally, the thickness, material and angles of the hinges of mechanism (402), as well as the spring-like properties of the hinges, are shown and described herein for illustrative purposes, but may be altered by any man skilled in the art, for instance, according to the desired strength of the spring loading in view of the weight of the intended user of the support surface assembly.

FIG. 17 shows a top perspective view of an embodiment of the frame (400) of the present invention comprising a second embodiment of a mechanism (502) for correcting the sagging, comprising all of the features and advantages of the first embodiment of the mechanism for correcting sagging, mutatis mutandis. According to the second embodiment, transverse side walls (446 a), (446 b) are pivotally attached to crossbar (442) by means of spring loaded mechanism (502) comprising a hinge (504) and a compression spring (506).

Referring to FIG. 18, showing a cross-sectional view of longitudinal wall (450 a) and transverse wall (446 a), with mechanism (502) in an exploded view, hinge (504) comprises a first (horizontal) wing (508) for joining to longitudinal wall (450 a) at the cut out portion (552) situated at the underside of the wall (450 a), and second (vertical) wing (510) for joining to transverse wall (446 a) at the cutout portion (448). Horizontal wing (508) is joined to vertical wing (510) by a pivot joint (512). Longitudinal portion (450 a) comprises an angled corner (554) for accommodating pivot (512) of hinge (504). Spring (506) is compressed and lodged within opening (556) in longitudinal portion (450 a). When fully assembled, with the air permeable layer (not shown) stretched over frame (400), wings (508), (510) are oriented at a 90° angle as shown in FIG. 18. If a user lies on the air permeable layer, causing sagging, spring (506), forces first wing (510), and in turn transverse side wall (446 a) outward, thereby pulling the air permeable layer taut over the frame.

It is understood that according to the second embodiment of mechanism (502), the number of springs (506) and the strength of springs (506) are determined by the man skilled in the art, depending on factors such as the expected maximum weight of the user of the support surface assembly.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22, frame (560) is provided with a plurality of pivotal legs (565). A leg (565), which may have a rounded head (561), parallel edges (571) and (572) extending from head (561), and terminal edge (573) oblique to edges (571) and (572), is pivotally connected by means of a corresponding axle (561) to inner side wall (567) of transversal walls (566 a) and (566 b), preferably at each longitudinal end thereof. The length of each leg (565) is generally less than the spacing between axle (561) and an adjacent cross bar (562), so that a leg may be normally stowed along an inner side wall (567). By rotating two opposite legs (565) so that they downwardly extend from transversal walls (566 a) and (566 b) and their terminal edge (573) contacts a frame support of the bed, one longitudinal end of frame (560) will be elevated. The rotation of a leg (565) is limited by means of bottom edge 569 of an adjacent longitudinal wall (568 a) or (568 b), as shown in FIG. 22.

A pillow may therefore be rendered unnecessary and bodily fluids discharged from the sleeping person may therefore be quickly discharged from the air-permeable layer via the sloping surface. The removal of discharged bodily fluid is also facilitated by means of the sloping surface of the triangular upper portion of frames (330 b)-(330 d) illustrated in FIGS. 12 b-d, respectively.

When the present invention is used by an adult, or a non-infant child, the risk of injury due to contact with the frame is less then that for an infant. Therefore, the upper edge of the frame may comprise a thickness greater than that required for when utilized by an infant. For instance, the upper edge may be as thick as 100 mm. Nevertheless, due to the allergenic factors as well as the presence of dust mites as described herein above, it is still preferable for the upper edge to be thin like when used for an infant.

Additional advantages of the present invention include providing relief from pressure build-up and bed-sores of a person who is confined to a bed for an extended period of time. Lack of movement of body parts prevents oxygen from reaching and circulating properly throughout the body. The support surface assembly of the present invention may alleviate such problems.

The support surface assembly of the present invention may be disassembled and washed periodically as described herein above. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from incontinence, particularly children and the elderly, as well as those who perspire in large amounts during sleep. In addition, since the support surface assembly is preferably elastic, it avoids the formation of sleeping patterns. Using the support surface assembly proposed by the present invention, the sleeping infant constantly sleeps on a “memory-less” surface, which is equivalent to a new mattress, on which the infant sleeps repeatedly.

The support surface assembly may be utilized in unconventional situations such as by a soldier situated in a bunker or in a tent on the battle field, where sleeping arrangements that are easily assembled, disassembled and cleanable are desirable.

While some embodiments of the invention have been described by way of illustration, it will be apparent that the invention can be carried into practice with many modifications, variations and adaptations, and with the use of numerous equivalents or alternative solutions that are within the scope of persons skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope of the claims.

EXAMPLES

Several experiments were conducted using the support surface assembly of the present invention to determine the effectiveness of the invention with regard to the health benefits as described herein above.

Example 1

This experiment was performed to determine the amount of dust mites that the support surface assembly of the present invention retains in comparison to a conventional mattress.

Dermatophagoides farinae (house dust mites) were cultured in a laboratory using a mixture of horse dander/medical yeast (2:1) at a temperature of 25±1° C. 75±5 relative humidity.

Three support surface assemblies of the present invention, each with a netting of 140 micron (20×20×6×2.8 cm), with 12 strings per cm and 68% open space, were tested and compared with a control (conventional) mattress, the core of which was a polymeric sponge covered with a tissue composed of 50% cotton and 50% polyester (22×22×8 cm), for the survival of mites under optimal environmental conditions.

0.01 mg of mites taken directly from the colony (without medium) (ca. 250-300 mites) and 40 mg of medium were evenly distributed over the entire surface of the support surface assemblies and mattress. Thereafter, the support surface assembly and mattresses were placed in an incubator (24° C. and 70-80% relative humidity). The viability of the mites was examined under a stereo-microscope after 1 and 2 days.

On day 2, the support surface assemblies were rinsed thoroughly with distilled water, and thereafter were examined under the stereo-microscope for any remaining mites. Mites were removed from the control mattress surface by shaking it over a container with water. Adhesive bands were glued on the surface of each mattress and the few remaining mites were collected and counted as well. The water with mites and medium from all four support surface assemblies and mattresses was filtered separately through several white filter papers (Schleicher & Schuell, 604, 7 cm diameter), and the number of live mites was counted under a stereo-microscope (5×).

The results of this experiment, showing the mite survival during the 2 days of experiment are displayed in Table 1, in FIG. 19. After day 1, very few (+) or few + mites were detected on the support surface assemblies (E, F, G), and a lot ++ of mites were detected on the control mattress (C). After day 2, all three support surface assemblies had very few (+) mites, with an average of 7.3 mites between them. The control mattress contained a lot ++ of mites, estimated at 221.

The few mites seen on the support surface assemblies were mainly concentrated at the edges of the mattress where the food and mites could survive between the wood and netting. The distance between fibers was large enough to prevent mites and medium from remaining on the surface. On the control mattress, mites were apparently behaving normally (laying eggs, copulating, eating). Ca. 30 times fewer mites could be found on the support surface assembly of the present invention than on the control mattress after 2 days of experimentation.

Example 2

Four experiments were performed to determine whether the circulation through the support surface assembly of the present invention is sufficient to allow CO₂ gathered above it to flow through it.

Three support surface assemblies were used. A first support surface assembly was not covered, a second support surface assembly was covered by a unique netted sheet, and a third support surface assembly was covered by a conventional linen sheet.

CO₂ was pumped from a tank through a tube at a rate that simulated the breathing of an infant. The tank contained air having 5% CO₂ such that the maximum amount of CO₂ in the pumped mixture could be 5%, which is exemplary of an infant's breath.

First, a control experiment was performed were a container was positioned on top of the uncovered mattress, and hermetically sealed from below the mattress. CO₂ was pumped into the container until a maximum of 5% CO₂ filled the container. This experiment was performed as a control to determine how long it would take to fill the container with 5% of CO₂.

Next, the seal from below the mattress was removed, and CO₂ was pumped into the container situated above each of the three test mattresses.

The results of each of the experiments are presented graphically in FIG. 20. The top curve, marked “A” indicates the results of the first, control experiment. As can be seen, after slightly more than six minutes, the entire container is filled with 5% of CO₂. The curves marked “B” and “C” indicate the amount of CO₂ accumulated within the container above the uncovered support surface assembly (“B”) and the support surface assembly covered with the netted sheet (“C”). As can be seen, after six minutes, less than 1% of CO₂ accumulated in the container. Finally, curve “D” indicates that a maximum of approximately 1.5% CO₂ accumulated in the container above the support surface assembly covered by the conventional linen sheet.

The results show that the airflow through the uncovered support surface assembly, and through the support surface assembly covered with the netted cover, are essentially the same, and allow almost the entire amount of CO₂ to pass through. The support surface assembly covered with a conventional linen sheet prevents a little more CO₂ from passing through, but still, the level of retained CO₂ is low.

CONCLUSION

The experimental results show that the present invention provides a safe support surface assembly for sleeping thereon, particularly for infants and those suffering from allergies, and enables effortless breathing through it. 

1. A support surface assembly for reducing risk of injury to a sleeping person, said assembly comprising: a. an air-permeable layer; b. an essentially rigid frame comprising an upper portion having an upper edge, a lower portion having a bottom wall, and side walls, for supporting said air-permeable layer, said frame extending along the perimeter of said support surface assembly; and c. means for fixedly joining said air-permeable layer to said frame, wherein said joining means is applied such that said air-permeable layer is provided with a desired tension and entirely covers said upper edge, wherein the thickness of said upper edge is less than that of said bottom wall and ranges from 0.5 to 3 mm, thereby reducing risk of injury with respect to said frame if the sleeping person falls on said air-permeable layer.
 2. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the upper portion of the frame has a triangular cross section.
 3. A support surface assembly according to claim 2, wherein the frame has a truncated right triangular shape.
 4. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the upper edge of the frame is rounded.
 5. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the air-permeable layer comprises a lattice grid structure that may be chosen from the group consisting of: a. a mesh material; b. a netting; and c. a web-like material.
 6. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the outer perimeter of the air-permeable layer is joined to the frame at the side wall of said frame.
 7. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the outer perimeter of the air-permeable layer is joined to the frame at the bottom wall of said frame.
 8. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame is covered by padding.
 9. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the frame further comprises a plurality of passageways for providing additional air flow means.
 10. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least one transverse cross bar is situated transversely within the frame.
 11. A support surface assembly according to claim 10, wherein a breathing and movement monitor is positioned below the cross bar.
 12. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein a conventional mattress is situated at the underside of the frame.
 13. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the frame further comprises pivotable transverse sides, for inwardly folding said frame.
 14. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein a movement sensor is attached to the air-permeable layer, for sensing mechanical vibrations caused by a respiratory movement and for transmitting signals that represent the profile or pattern of the sensed vibrations to a monitoring device.
 15. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein the frame further comprises opposing transverse walls joined to opposing longitudinal walls by a mechanism for correcting sagging of the air-permeable layer.
 16. A support surface assembly according to claim 15, wherein the mechanism is spring loaded.
 17. A support surface assembly according to claim 15, wherein the mechanism is chosen from the group consisting of: a. a spring loaded hinge; and b. a hinge and a compression spring.
 18. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, wherein vibratory motion of the air-permeable layer is transmitted to a movement sensor placed on a frame support by means of a vibration transmitter.
 19. A support surface assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of pivotable legs for elevating one longitudinal end of the frame.
 20. A vibration transmitter for transmitting vibratory motion of a suspended surface, comprising an upper member in contact with an underside of said suspended surface, a lower member in contact with a movement sensor placed on a stationary surface and coupled to said upper member, and spring means extending from said lower member to a surface of said upper member, said lower member adapted to oscillate in response to said vibratory motion, whereby to induce a corresponding electrical signal by means of said movement sensor.
 21. The vibration transmitter according to claim 20, wherein a portion of an upper member body surrounds a lower member body and the lower member is coupled with the upper member by means of one or more pins protruding from the side of the lower member body and received in a corresponding vertically oriented groove formed in the upper member body.
 22. The vibration transmitter according to claim 20, wherein the spring means is a stiff coiled spring by which the upper and lower members are vertically displaced in unison in response to the vibratory motion.
 23. The vibration transmitter according to claim 20, wherein the upper member has a flange for contacting the suspended surface, said flange being made of, or covered by, a resilient material for protecting a person located on the suspended surface.
 24. The vibration transmitter according to claim 20, wherein the suspended surface is an air permeable layer, said air permeable layer being supported by an essentially rigid frame comprising an upper portion having an upper edge, a lower portion having a bottom wall, and side walls, wherein said air-permeable layer is fixedly joined to said frame such that said air-permeable layer is provided with a desired tension and entirely covers said upper edge, wherein the thickness of the upper edge is less than that of said bottom wall, thereby reducing risk of injury with respect to the frame if a sleeping person falls on the air-permeable layer.
 25. The vibration transmitter according to claim 24, wherein the thickness of the upper edge ranges from 0.5 to 3 mm. 